confidence of the hostile natives increase. After the attack upon the Hutt, the consternation of the settlers was very great. The women and children of the out-lying Europeans, were lodged in the centre of the town; and arms and ammunition supplied to the whole sale population who applied for them. But now that a week has elapsed, and people are becoming enured to danger, the excitement has decreased. It has checked business in an alarming manner, and I fear the injury will be felt yet to agreater extent. The unfortunate cultivators have abandoned all thoughts of wheat sowing; and only the more confident have even grassed their lands. You will, of course, receive more ample intelligence from the authorities than I am capable of imparting; and I know, will set matters in a better position than the old women who govern, or rather misgovern, this part of the Colony. I regret to say that I have been detained here for the last eight weeks. The ''Carbon'' having experienced such unfortunate weather when returning to Taranaki, and now being detained for repairs in the Hutt. I trust I shall be able to leave by the end of this week, or the beginning of next. I am tired to death with the ennui of Wellington, and have determined not to leave Taranaki again this year, if I can be fortunate enough